"New" camera (for me)

[galanthophile]

Thanks Brian that is very helpful. First time I used it a heron was just taking off so I pretty much just had to point and shoot but got a couple of ok shots and yesterday I was in a local wood and looked up and saw a tawny owl! All I can say is I got a couple of photos but not good enough to post here. Just practice, practice!

[operanut1972]

If you have never used an SLR before you are going to be on a steep learning curve. Good luck . Practice, practice & more practice is the key. I suggest either picking up a beginners guide to Dale photography either a Magbook or a field guide to the basics. That way you'll progress faster. I have been using an SLR since I was 11 nearly 30 years now , but I'm still learning each time I go out.

The main element is to enjoy it, if you can pull that off everything else should fall into place.

[galanthophile]

Thankfully I have used an SLR before otherwise I'd still be on a compact point and shoot! I am considering doing a course rather than plough through manuals..

[operanut1972]

Sounds like a plan. Looking forward to seeing your shots.

[Alan Hewitt]

Hi Ann

Whatever you choose to do I would recommend where possible to place as much of your budget towards your lens. In terms of a good quality SLR the body itself is always going to be a great camera but it is your lens where you will really see the difference.

Regards

Alan

[galanthophile]

Thanks Alan, yes I will be saving up for a better lens but will enjoy practicing with this one for a while until I get more experienced.

[Alan Hewitt]

Cool, look forward to seeing the results!!